Support Amber and Her Family To Fight Cancer

$6,317 donated

Given by 71 generous donors in 6 weeks

Amber Te Moananui suffered a broken spine due to a cancerous spinal tumor (plasmacytoma) and has a premature baby in the NICU.

Stoke, Nelson

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Our beloved Kaiako Kaiāwhina (teaching assistant) at Nayland Primary School, Amber Te Moananui, has touched so many lives with her kindness, dedication, and warmth. Due to a recently diagnosed cancerous tumour on her spine, Amber has been forced to deliver her baby 6 weeks early and must undergo urgent treatment in Christchurch. Her baby is currently in the NICU and Amber’s treatment includes radiation and spinal surgery.

This means that her partner must leave their home and job in Nelson to be by her side, creating financial and emotional strain during an already overwhelming time. We are reaching out to our community to rally around this wonderful family—helping to cover their ongoing and additional expenses so they can focus on what truly matters: Amber’s health and their precious new baby. Amber and whānau greatly appreciate any contribution, big or small. Anything you can offer will make a world of difference. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

Katherine Smith's involvement (page creator)

Amber is both a friend and colleague, and I have had the honour of working alongside her for over 10 years.

Use of funds

Donations will help cover the family's daily expenses such as rent and food, ensuring JJ can stay in Christchurch to support Amber and their baby during this critical time rather than having to return to Nelson to work.

A Devastating Update 27 March 2025

On Monday Amber was out of bed when her spine went into traumatic shock. An urgent MRI has shown her spine is now broken due to damage caused by the tumour. She has had surgery on her spine this morning (Thursday) to try and stabilise it. This is all on top of radiation therapy which Amber is still having 5 days a week in an attempt to shrink the tumour.

In positive news, Kiarni (her baby), although still in the NICU, is now off the breathing support and out of the incubator. This means she is able to visit Amber in her hospital bed. This allows Amber to have precious time with her baby between treatments.

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